GEORGE BENSON

THE JAZZ SCENE
Volume 15, Number 4
July/August 2012
Living
legends
GEORGE
BENSON
Editor’s note: At our last GDJS concert, we
were treated to the jazz stylings of George Benson
and vocalist Barbara Ware. Many of you were also
in attendance at Jerry McKenzie’s “Just Jazz” concert
which paired trumpeter Dave Tatrow and George –
to rave reviews. Here’s a little more info about the
legendary George Benson.
George Benson’s playing career began with
a “C” melody saxophone at the age of eleven.
When his father saw that he was interested,
he bought George an alto saxophone. George
played sax in both the junior and senior high
school bands. He also learned to play the clarinet and the bassoon in school bands.
George played his first professional job
at age sixteen with a big band at the Granada
Theater. Due to his young age, his father had
to sign for him to enter the musicians union in
order to work that job.
George played various clubs around
Detroit and Ohio until he was drafted into the
army. George was married two months before
he went into the service. After being drafted,
George joined the 264th Army Band stationed
in Hawaii. George also played bassoon in the
All Service Band. He returned to Detroit after
an honorable discharge from the service and
continued to work in clubs in Windsor and
Detroit.
George was the leader of the house band
at the famous Flame Show Bar during its last
year. George continued his musical career
as both a leader and a sought after sideman.
Throughout the decade of the 1960’s, George
was a vital part of many of the Motown
recordings.
Academically inclined, George Benson is
well known as a teacher of Jazz improvisation
and theory. He has written a book titled “Jazz
Etudes Over Classic Jazz Changes” published
by Houston Publishing, Inc., and exclusively
distributed by the prestigious Hal Leonard.
In 1988, George received the “National
Association of Jazz Educator’s Outstanding
Service to Jazz Education” Award.
George’s performance credits, too numerous to mention here, range from Louis
Armstrong to Lena Horne, Stevie Wonder to
Lionel Hampton, Ella Fitzgerald to Milton
Berle. He is often seen with many Detroit
contemporaries including Marcus Belgrave,
Cliff Monear and Barbara Ware, and in years
past with the late J.C. Heard, Bess Bonnier
and Matt Michaels. George has several CDs
to his credit and has continued to spend the
major years of his life developing the intricacies of a master musician. George has loyally
remained in the Detroit area and raised a
family.
For more information about George
including the extensive list of those he has performed with and his recordings, please visit:
www.GeorgeBensonMusic.com n
Page 1
GDJS Annual
Member Picnic
The date is August 12, 2012, from 1 p.m. to
dusk at the home of Nancy Blake. Her address is
15845 17 Mile Road in Clinton Township, 48038.
This is 1/2 mile between Hayes and Garfield.
This will be the fourth year that member Nancy
Blake has invited musicians and GDJS members
to her home for a day-long jazz extravaganza of
culinary delights, libations and hot jazz! The picnic
is free to all members and immediate family, and all
musicians and spouses (musicians and spouses are
free, of course). Non-members are also welcome,
paying $10 at the door, or joining the club for $10.
We ask that everyone bring a dish to pass (if
you’re not a cook, store-bought will be acceptable
or please make a donation to the picnic). If you are
bringing food, plan to arrive no later than
2 p.m. – dinner will be served at that time. The
GDJS will provide hot dogs and buns, beer, water,
pop, ice, cups, coffee, plates and silverware. We’ll
provide the tents and chairs. Other than beer, please
B.Y.O.B. The air conditioning will be on that day in
Nancy’s spacious home in the event the temperatures
are again “up.”
Chuck Moss will organize the music of the
day. Fliers are available with a map and more
information, please call Nancy on 586-610-9871
for clarification or Sally if you’d like a map e-mailed
to you. We are so grateful to Nancy for hosting this
fun, annual event. It’s a huge undertaking for her. As
always, we count on our volunteers to make this day
a success. If you are interested in volunteering for
an assignment that day, please give Nancy a call. We
need people to help set up before the event, assist
with tasks during and clean up afterward. We hope
to see you there!! n
Inside ...
2.
3.
4.
5.
6-7.
8.
Grugelfest in Toledo, Ohio
Summer Concerts
Shield’s Concert Schedule
Miscellaneous Events
Where’s The Jazz?
Join the GDJS
Grugelfest
There’s a new “old” festival in the works for this fall. The
EARLYJAS Festival (formerly held in Strongville, Ohio) has
been replaced by the Grugelfest in Toledo, Ohio. “Ragtime
Rick” Grafing volunteered to co-chair this favorite event of
many of our members after the financial “bottom line” didn’t
measure up to expectations last year (sadly, a story we are hearing often).
The Ralph Grugel
Memorial Jazz Festival
Cakewalkin’ Jass Band
Toledo, Ohio
featuring Duke Heitger, trumpet
GRUGELFEST, named for the late Ralph Grugel (leader
of the Eagle Jazz Band) will be held at the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel. It was a bumpy start but the undaunted Rick says,
“After a series of delays beyond our control (simple things;
our charity went out of business, a major sponsor dropped
out at the last minute, and the hotel was sold to the Chinese,
for example) we are moving FULL SPEED AHEAD with the
Grugelfest!”
Rosie O’Grady’s
Good Time Jazz Band
Orlando, Florida
Five great bands will be featured over three days (see
complete list at left). There will be two venues, Ballroom and
Lounge, plus an additional stage for piano players and small
groups.
“Traditional Jazz is Good – Taste Some Every Day!”
Featuring an All-Star Line Up:
In addition to the two primary stages, Rick is working on a
third venue with Craig’s Pianos and Keyboards (Toledo’s only
real piano store). We plan to feature piano players and smaller
groups there, in a more intimate setting -- and so far has Bob
Milne, Jim Dapogny, and Sister Jean the Ragtime Queen
lined up as headliners.
The Sunset Stomp Jazz Band
Indianapolis, Indiana
featuring Robin Hopkins and Kathleen Miller
Buffalo Ridge Jazz Band
Cincinnati, Ohio
For those who prefer an outdoor setting, nearby Perrysburg,
Ohio will feature hot jazz on Saturday for their annual Harrison Rally Day celebration. On Sunday, a Dixieland worship
service will be held at Bethel Lutheran Church. (It’s only 7
minutes away from the hotel.) After the service, they’ll be serving a chicken dinner for anyone who cares to stay for it -- and
Bob Milne will provide the entertainment.
Easy Street Jazz Band
Ann Arbor, Michigan
featuring Nicole Heitger, vocals
Solo Pianists: Jim Dapogny, Bob Milne,
Sister Jean the Ragtime Queen
Tickets are $40 per session or $120 for all sessions (there
are four sessions – Friday at 6 p.m., Saturday at 11 a.m. and
6:30 p.m. and Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m.). If you order
by August 1, you’re receive the Early Bird Special of $100.
A limited quantity of Patron Tickets are available; priced at
$150 which include reserved seating, your name listed in the
program, a Saturday morning Patron Breakfast, and free,
secure parking in the Seagate Centre Parking Garage (which is
attached to the Park Inn Hotel).
Friday-Sunday
September 14-16, 2012
Location: Park Inn by Radisson
101 North Summit Street
(at Monroe Street)
Toledo, Ohio, 43604
Phone 419-241-3000
Web Site: http://grugelfest.com/
Tickets are now on sale. They can be purchased in person
or by phone from the Seagate Convention Centre Box Office
at 419-321-5007, or from Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.
com or 800-745-3000 (although they charge an additional
service fee).
The Greater Detroit Jazz Society will be a sponsor of Grugelfest and we will not be having a Jazz at Shield’s concert that
weekend. I am looking for volunteers to work a table at the
event. We’ll be passing out information about our concerts and
organization.
If the above is not everything you ever wanted to know,
please call “Ragtime Rick” Grafing, home phone 419-389-9070
or cell 419-481-3438. n
Page 2
SUMMER JAZZ
7-31, Tuesday – Jerry McKenzie and “Just Jazz” featuring
Meri Slavin on vocals, Pat Cronley on piano and Dan
Jordan on bass
8-7, Tuesday – Marge’s Bar Band with Jim Wyse, Johnny
Trudell, Chuck Moss, John Hammer, Bill Bolle and
Bob Pinterich
8-14, Tuesday – Dave Tatrow Quartet
8-21, Tuesday – The Millionaires featuring Garfield Angove
on vocals
8-28, Tuesday – The Paul Keller Quartet
9-4, Tuesday – Jerry McKenzie and “Just Jazz”
Birmingham Community House
“Jazzy Nights on the Terrace”
Under the direction of Ron Kischuk.
Music every Thursday at 6 p.m., $10 cover, small plate menu
and alcoholic beverages available for purchase, 380 S. Bates,
Birmingham (in case of rain will be held inside).
248-644-5832, www.tchserves.org
7-26 – Ron Kischuk and the Masters of Music Quartet
(Ron Kischuk, Judie Cochill, Jeff Halsey and Gary
Schunk)
8-2 – Randy Scott Quartet (smooth jazz)
8-9 – Dwight Adams Quartet
8-16 – Marion Hayden and Straight Ahead
Southfield Gazebo Concert Series 2012
Every Tuesday, 7-8:30 p.m., Burgh Historical Park, northeast
corner of Civic Center Drive and Berg Road. Snacks and refreshments beginning at 6:30 p.m., www.cityofsouthfield.com
Rec Bowl – “Jazzin’ With Some Barbeque”
July 24 – Straight Ahead Trio
July 31 – Ron Kischuk’s “Tartarsauce Traditional Jazz Band”
August 7 – Southfield Jazz Orchestra
August 14 – Metro Jazz Voices
Every Tuesday night and some big band weekend dates. Join
the jazz lovers and dancers in this beautiful new outdoor covered area with a dance floor. Barbeque chicken and ribs, casual
menu and cash bar from 5-10 p.m., Music and dancing from
6:30-9:30 p.m., no cover charge. 40 Crocker Boulevard at First
Street, 48043. 586-468-7746. www.RecBowl.com
The Gandy Dancer Series, 401 Depot Street, in
Ann Arbor again presents the Courtyard Jazz Series every
Wednesday at 6 p.m. 401 Depot Street (in the old train station). For more information, please contact Ingrid Racine,
734-218-1477 or e-mail [email protected]
7-20, Friday – Leo Rea’s “Rea Deal” Big Band featuring
vocalists Gary Sacco and Steffi Roche.
7-22, Sunday – “Swing Shift Orchestra” featuring vocalists Diane Trombley and Gary Sacco (in conjunction
with Italian Festival in Mt. Clemens. All-you-can-eat
original Luigis pasta dinner 4-8 p.m. for $10, big band
music 5-8 p.m.
7-24, Tuesday – Tom Brown/George Benson Quartet featuring Judie Cochill on vocals
7-27, Friday – Gary Greenfelder Orchestra (GGO) featuring
vocalists Jennifer Jones and Peter Tocco.
7-25 – Pat Prouty
8-1 – Vincent York
8-8 – Tumbao Bravo
8-15 – Al Hill
8-22 – Dobbins, Krahnke & Weed
8-29 – Ingrid Racine Quartet
9-5 – The Brother’s Groove
9-12 – James Dapogny
Dues and E-mail Update
Greater Detroit Jazz Society
Emily Laura – Public Relations
Chuck Moss – Concert Booking Manager
Ricki Atkinson / Jay Cornett – Newsletter Distribution
Bill Bolle – Treasurer / Legal
Nancy Blake / Picnic Chairperson, Ticket Sales
Membership Cards
Ambassador Chairperson – TBD
Concert Support: Pat Elliott, Suzanna Kain, Lee Lindsay,
Ricki Atkinson, Jay Cornett , Cathy Lee, Brian Pelton,
and Nancy Blake
Sally Bolle – Newsletter Design / Editor /Promotion
([email protected])
Bill Knowles – Director Emeritus
We would again like to thank those members who have
paid their dues for 2012, which were payable in January. We
would especially like to welcome our many new members
and patrons who have joined and are bringing new life and
enthusiasm to our concerts. We are experiencing outstanding attendance and support, and we’re very grateful.
If you are a member who currently receives a hard copy
in the mail and would prefer to receive your newsletter digitally (and earlier!) – please call Sally Bolle on
248-813-0328 to advise. This assumes that you have a viable
e-mail address, and please remember that it is your responsibility to notify us if that address changes. I still have many
e-mails bouncing back, either because you’ve changed your
address or your mailbox is full. We really do want you to
receive your e-mails! n
We’re grateful to the friends and musicians who contribute
articles, artwork and photos for our newsletter. We thank you
for your time and expertise. If you’re interested in
providing an article or have questions regarding the club,
please give me a call at 248-813-0328 or e-mail me at:
[email protected].
All photos by Sally Bolle unless otherwise noted.
Page 3
Saturday, July 21, 2012
The Millionaires
Featuring Garfield Angove on vocals
Mark Your Calendar
come and enjoy an afternoon of the Detroit area’s finest classic
jazz, dixieland and swing musicians!
2012 Schedule – Jazz at Shield’s
AUGUST 4 – NO CONCERT!
SEPTEMBER 1
SUNDAY, AUGUST 12
CHUCK MOSS
PAINT CREEK JAZZ BAND
MARGE’S BAR BAND
SEPTEMBER 15 – NO GDJS CONCERT
R.J. SPANGLER AND
PLANET D NONET
GDJS MEMBER PICNIC
ALL MUSICIANS WELCOME
NON-MEMBERS $10
NANCY BLAKE’S HOUSE
AUGUST 18
JAMES DAPOGNY‘S JAZZ BAND
GRUEGELFEST – TOLEDO, OHIO
OCTOBER 6
CARL CAFAGNA AND CREOLE KITCHEN
NOVEMBER 3
NOVEMBER 17
DECEMBER 1
DAVE BENNETT QUARTET
OCTOBER 20
RAY HEITGER AND
CAKEWALKIN’ JASS BAND
DECEMBER 15
DAVE TATROW AND FRIENDS
SHIELD’S OF SOUTHFIELD
1-4 P.M. – GREAT FOOD, CASH BAR
25101 TELEGRAPH ROAD (AT 10 MILE), SOUTHFIELD, 48033, 248-356-2720
$10 COVER • FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT EMILY LAURA AT 248-855-1342 OR SALLY BOLLE 248-813-0328
WE LOVE OUR MEMBERS AND PATRONS WHO MAKE THESE CONCERTS POSSIBLE!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2012 PATRONS: ROBERT AND DOROTHY AMIS, CHUCK AND MARY BONTEN,
DR. CHESTER COCCIA, ROGER DeMEYERE, DIXIEBELLE, JUNE EVERETT, DAVE FALVAY, CAROL FOSSEE, JUDITH FULKERSON (FULKERSON
SPEAKER REBUILDERS), LINDA GATES, DON GOSS, ROD GOODYEAR, GARY GREENFELDER AND ALEKSANDRA MIZIOLEK, BOB HILTON,
SUE SHEPANEK, KERRYTOWN CONCERT HOUSE, MARCO KNAPP AND JIM STERN, WALLY AND ROSEMARY LUBZIK, PAT MacCARROLL,
MARGE’S BAR, LINDA MARSHALL, JACK MOLLOY, JEFF MYERS, CLIFF AND AILEEN MORRIS, BRIAN NEWSOM, ELLIE AND GEORGE NOSKY,
GARY AND JOYCE OWEN, BRIAN AND LISA PELTON, BOB AND JEAN PETTIGREW, KERRY PRICE, TOM RODGERS,
NANC Y SALDEN, GEORGE SINNOTT, JOHN SOTIR, ARTHUR STONE, CATHY AND DAVE TATROW, PEGGY AND SAM TUNDO,
AL AND BARBARA VIRZI, CHRISTINE WHITTEMORE and CLEM WALDMANN.
In loving memory of Patrons Doug Jacobs and Tom Saunders.
Page 4
Sugar House
Steinway Jazz Café
Alex Beljah on guitar and Dave Kosmyna on cornet.
8-22, Wednesday, Steinway Jazz Cafe´presents the jazz artistry
of vocalist Kelly Broadway with Cliff Monear, Paul Keller and Scott
Kretzer.
Showtime is 7-9 p.m., cover is $12, and includes refreshments.
Steinway Piano Gallery of Detroit is at 2700 E. West Maple Road
(at the SE corner of M-5 and Maple), Commerce Twp., MI 48390.
For reservations call Cathy @ 248-560-9200 or e-mail RSVP to
[email protected]. Visit: www.steinwaydetroit.com
Every Wednesday from 7-10 p.m., 2130 Michigan
Avenue, Detroit. 313-962-0123 – www.sugarhouse.com
Northern Lights Lounge
Every Tuesday, 8 p.m., Dennis Coffey Jazz Trio,
660 W. Baltimore, Detroit. 313-873-1739. Dennis Coffey on
guitar, Nate Winn on drums, and Damon Warmack on bass.
Great jazz, great food, no cover, and free lighted parking.
Grosse Pointe “Music on the Plaza”
Jazz on the Lawn at
St. Augustine St. Monica Church
St. John Hospital and Medical Center
presents the 25th Annual
Music on the Plaza – Thursdays at 7 p.m.
Free outdoor jazz concert series. Bring the family, lawn chairs
and picnic baskets to The Village Festival Plaza at the corner
of Kercheval and St. Clair in Towntown Grosse Pointe.
8-19, Sunday, 4151 Seminole, Detroit 48214. One block north
of Mack, two blocks east of Van Dyke). Noon-7 p.m., Featuring: Gabriel Brass Band, Bill Meyer featuring scat diva Audrey
Northington, Marion Hayden Quartet, Steve Hunter Quintet,
Craig Cullers Group, Taslimah Bey Quartet, Ben’s Friends Orchestra and Jazz Development Workshop Youth Choir.
313-921-4107.
July 26 – NO CONCERT
August 2 – The Marge’s Bar Band (Detroit All-Stars)
Featuring Jim Wyse, Johnny Trudell, Chuck Moss,
John Hammer, Bill Bolle and Bob Pinterich
For more information call 313-886-7474
or visit www.thevillagegp.com
Howell Eagles Aerie #3607
8-19, Sunday, and third Sunday of every month,The Blue
Notes, under the direction of Thomas Halm, playing music of
the 40s and 50s big band era and later. 3-7 p.m., $50 cover,
open to the public, dinner and sandwich specials available.
Howell Eagles Aerie #3607, 141 Schroeder Park Drive, Howell, MI 48843. 517-548-1630 or 517-548-4313.
Taylor Conservatory Summer Concert Series
If you are a music lover who happens to love gardens as well,
this is a music series you will not want to miss! For $5 cover,
you can support the Taylor Conservatory, a beautiful gem
of a venue with a mini-version of the Belle Isle Conservatory
loaded with unusual varieties of flowers. Don’t forget to visit the
chocolate garden and the two unique living walls.
North Oakland Dixieland Band
8-26, Sunday, Dragon Festival, Broadway Street,
Lake Orion, Noon-2 p.m.
Bar and minimal food opens at 5 p.m., music from 6-8 p.m. in
the gardens. Limited seating, but lawn chairs and blankets are
welcomed. 888-383-4108.
8-28, Tuesday, Orion Township Amphitheater,
Joslyn Court, Lake Orion, 8:30 p.m.
The address is: 22314 Northline Road, Taylor, MI 48080. For
more info visit www.taylorconservatory.org or e-mail info@
taylorconservatory.org, or phone 888-383-4108. A rain-out
location picked nearby just in case of bad weather so the show
will go on at Taylor Lanes, 24800 Eureka Road, Taylor.
Terrace Inn Jazz Weekends
2012-2013 Schedule
Call now to reserve your room for this always sold-out event
co-sponsored by the Greater Detroit Jazz Society.
Fall Weekend – September 7-9
features Ray Heitger’s Cakewalkin’ Jass Band
(featuring Nicole Heitger on vocals) and
the Chuck Moss’ Paint Creek Jazz Band (please note, due to a scheduling conflict, the Dave Bennett Quartet cannot perform this
weekend.) Chuck’s band will feature Chuck on trombone, Dave
Tatrow on trumpet, Tom Bogardus on clarinet, “Ragtime” Rick”
Grafing on piano, Bill Bolle on bass and Doug Cobb on drums.
The Historic Terrace Inn, Bay View, Michigan (near Traverse City)
1-800-530-9898 www.TerraceInn.com
Spring 2013 Mother’s Day Weekend booking now! – May 10-12,
2013 features Dave Tatrow and Friends with Dave Tatrow on
trumpet, Dave Bennett on clarinet, Cody Henry on trombone,
Doug Cobb on drums, Frank Steed on bass and
Jeff Kressler on piano.
July 25 – Randy Napoleon, jazz guitarist
August 1 – Penny Wells, contemporary R&B/jazz vocalist
August 8 – Paul Keller Quartet featuring Sarah D’Angelo
August 15 – The Dave Bennett Trio
August 22 – The Shelia Landis Quartet
August 29 – Jerry McKenzie’s “Just Jazz” Trio featuring
Dave Tatrow on trumpet and George Benson on sax.
Bakers Keyboard Lounge
8-31, Friday (Jazz Fest Friday), Marcus and Joan Belgrave perform
at the Bakers Keyboard Lounge with Bill Meyer on piano, Marion
Hayden on bass, Gayelynne McKinney on drums and Vincent Bowens
on vocals (tenor), “Joan Belgrave sings Dinah” with a special Baker’s
tribute to Teddy Harris and special surprise guests. 9:30 p.m.-12:30
a.m., 20510 Livernois Avenue, Detroit, 48221. 313-345-6300.
Page 5
WhERE’S THE JAZZ?
Some weekly events often change dates, please give the venue a call before driving a long distance! For more extensive schedules including out-of-town concerts, please
visit the musicians’ respective web sites. Don’t forget to check the Jazz at Shield’s schedule on another page of this newsletter to see many of these fine musicians playing for
our GDJS concerts. If you would like to be included in our daily e-mail jazz blasts, call Sally at (248) 813-0328.
Radio Jazz Don’t forget while you’re home to listen to WRCJ – Classical radio
by day, jazz by night. 90.9 WRCJ-FM is Detroit’s premier public radio source for classical and jazz music. Visit www.wrcj909fm.org for programming.
Blue Pointe Restaurant
Every Saturday, Hans Muer Jazz Trio at the Blue Pointe, Hans Muer on drums,
various other musicians every Saturday. 17131 E. Warren Avenue at Cadieux, Detroit 48224-2228. 7-10 p.m., great food, no cover, complimentary parking attendant.
Dinner for two special: $40 two dinners and bottle of wine or two drinks. Call for
reservations: 313-882-3653. Also can e-mail: [email protected]
Cliff Bell’s
8/19, Sunday @ 7PM, Hot Club of Detroit - Carrying on the sound of guitar
virtuoso Django Reinhardt, the ever popular Hot Club of Detroit offers a fresh take on
the gypsy jazz tradition let by fast-fingered Reinhardt disciple Evan Perri. Evan Perri,
guitar • Julien Labro, accordion • Paul Brady, guitar • Shawn Conley, bass.
Tickets $10 - $30; call 734-769-2999 or reserve online. http://bit.ly/MIObWm
8/24, Friday @ 8PM, Kathy Kosins: The Ladies of Cool - Featuring Kathy Kosins
on vocals, the performance celebrates the artistry of Anita O’Day, June Christy, Julie
London and Chris Connor. Kathy Kosins, vocals • Ellen Rowe, piano • Paul Keller,
bass • Sean Dobbins, drums. Tickets $10 - $30; call 734-769-2999 or reserve online.
Marge’s Bar and Grill
Every Wednesday-Saturday, 97 Kerchival, Grosse Pointe Farms, 313-882-JAZZ
(5299). $10 cover charge, per show, on some nights. Live piano bar and top jazz
groups. Please call the venue for exact schedules or visit www.DirtyDogJazz.com.
Great food – American and small-plate Tapas style.
2nd and 4th Thursday, starting up again after hockey season ends, please check
with the venue. 7-10 p.m., the jazz tradition continues with The Marge’s Bar
Band. Jim Wyse, leader and clarinet, John Trudell on brass, Chuck Moss on
trombone, John Hammer on piano, Bill Bolle on bass, Bob Pinterich on drums.
Dixieland and jazz standards “done right!” Great food in a legendary, casual hockeybar environment. Second and fourth Thursday’s, 7-10 p.m., 15300 Mack Avenue,
Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230. Mack at Beaconsfield. Phone 313-881-8895, www.
MargesBar.com
Kerrytown Concert House, Ann Arbor
Plymouth Elks Lodge, Jazz At The Elks
2030 Park Avenue at W. Adams, Detroit, Phone 313-961-6422. Various jazz groups
in a beautifully-restored martini bar. For more information visit www.CliffBells.com
Dirty Dog Jazz Café
The Plymouth Elks Lodge #1780 in Plymouth has Jazz @ The Elks in a beautiful
415 North Fourth Avenue, Ann Arbor, 734-659-2999, www.kerrytownconcertclub
setting on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. There is a
house.com. Tickets $5-$25; call 734-769-2999 or reserve online.
$10
donation.
For more information, please call 734-453-1780 or email: plymhttp://www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com
[email protected].
The Lodge is located at 41700 Ann Arbor Rd., Plymouth.
7/22, Sunday @ 7PM, Manner Effect: “Abundance” CD Release Concert – Made
7-31,
Tuesday,
Susan
Tobocman
from New York with Cliff Monear, Jeff Pedraz
up of talented young musicians, New York-based Manner Effect is dedicated to
and
Scott
Kretzer.
presenting original compositions & arrangements as well as shedding new light on
8-28, Tuesday, the Dave Bennett Quartet with Cliff Monear on keyboard, Kurt
classics from jazz standards to neo-soul grooves. Sarah Elizabeth Charles, vocals •
Krahnke
on bass and Doug Cobb on drums.
Caleb Curtis, saxophone • Logan Thomas, piano • PJ Roberts, bass • Josh Davis,
The
Plymouth
Elks Lodge was recently featured on www.DetroitPerforms.org for
drums. Tickets $5 - $25; call 734-769-2999 or reserve online. http://bit.ly/pZzYyu
the
history
of
Jazz
@ The Elks and how the proceeds are used to help needy children
7/28, Saturday @ 8PM, Tumbao Bravo - Tumbao Bravo is a six-piece ensemble
Visit
the
WRCJ
web
site (90.9) for other good news about jazz in our area.
that performs the authentic rhythms of Cuba with original jazz harmonies. Winner
of the 2005 and 2007 Detroit Music Awards for best jazz and world music recording
Musicians and Bands
categories, Tumbao Bravo was formed in 2003 by reedman Paul VornHagen and
DAVE BENNETT
conga player Alberto Nacif. Paul Vornhagen, flute/piccolo/saxophones • Bob
8-10, 8-24, Friday’s, The Dave Bennett Quartet featuring Dave on clarinet, Pat
Mojica, trumpet/flugelhorn • Patrick Prouty, bass/composer • Brian Di Blassio,
Cronley
on piano (10th) and Jeff Kressler on piano (24th), Bill Bolle on bass
piano • Alberto Nacif, congas/bongos • Javier M. Barrios, timbales/percussion.
and
Doug
Cobb on drums at Peabody’s in Birmingham, 8:30 p.m., reservations a
Tickets $5 - $25; call 734-769-2999 or reserve online. http://bit.ly/IOSTyN
must.
7/29, Sunday @ 4PM and 7PM, A Tribute to Wes Montgomery: featuring Perry
Dave is listed at various other venues in this newsletter. For complete schedule
Hughes, Randy Napoleon, and Ralph Tope. Join us in welcoming local and nationvisit
www.DaveBennett.com
ally recognized guitar greats for a tribute to jazz guitar legend Wes Montgomery.
Perry Hughes, guitar • Randy Napoleon, guitar • Ralph Tope, guitar • Chris CodDENNIS COFFEY
ish, organ • Sean Dobbins, drums. Tickets $10 - $30; call 734-769-2999 or reserve
Every Tuesday, 8 pm, Dennis Coffey Jazz Trio at the Northern Lights Lounge
online. http://bit.ly/Ma0Vqs
660 W. Baltimore, Detroit. 313-873-1739. Dennis Coffey on guitar, Nate Winn on
7/31, Tuesday @ 8PM, Ben Jansson Quartet - This all-star quartet showcases
drums, and Damon Warmack on bass. Great jazz, great food, no cover, and free
several new compositions by Michigan saxophonist Jansson, who combines modern
lighted parking.
harmonic and rhythmic ideas within a traditional jazz quartet setting. The group’s
JAMES DAPOGNY – PHIL OGILVIE’S RHYTHM KINGS (P.O.R.K.)
sound is inspired by the early style of the Stan Getz Quartet, as well as the quartets
Every Sunday, James Dapogny and Phil Ogilvie’s Rhythm Kings play at Zal Gaz
of Joe Henderson and John Coltrane. Ben Jansson, saxophone • Michael Karloff,
Grotto. 5-8 p.m., admission $7, $5 for students and seniors. A great place for dancers!
piano • Kurt Krahnke, bass • Sean Dobbins, drums. Tickets $10 - $30; call 734Zal Gaz Grotto located at 2070 Stadium Boulevard in Ann Arbor (between Liberty and
769-2999 or reserve online. http://bit.ly/KvwZRG
Pauline and across from the Ann Arbor wide side Post Office). Phone (734) 663-1202,
8/2, Thursday @ 8PM, Matador - Formed at Berklee College of Music, Matador
great food, reasonable drink prices, safe, free parking, no steps. Every Sunday exceptfringes on the avant-garde and contemporary classical while also encapsulating the
Sept. 16
feel and passion of swing music. Michael Sachs, winds • Jun Young Song, drums •
GARY GREENFELDER ORCHESTRA
Aaron Darrell, bass. Tickets $5 - $25; call 734-769-2999 or reserve online. http://bit.
Wednesday, 2nd and 4th of each month, Gary Greenfelder Orchestra at a
ly/KKAqou
Club 54, with Jennifer Jones on vocals, and other special guests. 7-10 p.m. Third
8/4, Saturday @ 7PM and 9PM, An Evening with Susan Chastain: Susan Sings
Wednesday of each month, GQ Jazz Ensemble with Jennifer Jones. Located on Van
Sinatra! - Former Firefly Club owner and former member of the Paul Keller Orchestra,
Dyke Road just north of 16 Mile Road on the east side of the street.
Susan returns to Ann Arbor for an evening of classic Frank Sinatra tunes, covering hits
Call 586-795-0054
he recorded throughout his career, and telling his story. Susan Chastain, voice • Phil
DeGreg, piano • Paul Keller, bass. Tickets $10 - $30; call 734-769-2999 or reserve
Page 6
online. http://bit.ly/MyvA33
WhERE’S the jazz?
JOHN HAMMER TRIO
7-27, Friday, The John Hammer Trio at Peabody’s Restaurant, 34965 Woodward, Birmingham. 8-11 p.m. with great old standards from the Great American
Songbook. Featuring Bill Fierst on drums and vocals, Danny Pliskow on string
bass, John Hammer on piano.
Alternating between trio and single every other Friday during the summer. Call
Gene for the schedule. 419-345-4480 cell, www.innatonu.com
Holiday Inn, Perrysburg, Oh, Jackson Square Atrium, Exit 193 off route 75
Sunday’s, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (brunch), duo, www.hifq.com
PLANET D NONET/R.J. SPANGLER (9-piece swing band)
Wednesday, Cliff Bell’s, open organ jam with R.J. Spangler (not with band), no
cover, 8:30 p.m., various great jazz on on other days, 2030 Park Avenue, Detroit, MI.
(313) 961-2543, visit www.cliffbells.com for complete schedule.
For a list of their extensive playing schedule, please visit their web site at www.
myspace.com/planetdnonet and on Facebook. Authentic swing music from the
20s/30s, standards and blues from the 40s.
RAY HEITGER / CAKEWALKIN’ JASS BAND
Every Friday, Ragtime Rick and Betsy Grafing, with Ray Heitger will be hosting a New Orleans Jazz and Jam Session, 9-1 p.m. at a new place called Scrubs Pub
and Grub, 3312 Glendale Avenue (near Byrne Road) in Toledo. Full menu of classic
pub food, complete bar service, quality beer on tap. 419-382-3007.
For complete schedule visit www.RayHeitger.com
MICHELE RAMO ON 8-STRING GUITAR AND HEIDI HEPLER ON VOCALS
Every Thursday, Michele Ramo on 8-string guitar at the Jenuwine Cigar Factory, 7-10 p.m., 44791 Schoenherr Rd., Sterling Heights, MI. 586-997-1731.
7-20, Friday, Heidi Hepler and Michele Ramo Duo at Tre Monti Restaurant,
“Jazz in the Patio,” 2695 East Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 8-11 p.m., 248-680-1100.
PAUL KELLER
Every Monday. The Paul Keller Orchestra at Zal Gaz Grotto – on vacation
until September 10, which will mark the beginning of PKO’s Silver Jubilee 25th
Season. To order Paul’s new CD “At Sundown” featuring Paul on bass, Sarah
D’Angelo on vocals and clarinet, pianist Duncan McMillan and saxophonist
Ben Jansson, visit his web site.
See Paul’s extensive schedule listed at venues throughout this newsletter. For
complete local schedule of Paul’s extensive schedule visit www.pkorecords.com
KERRY PRICE
Third Thursday of every month, “Anything Goes” at the Dakota Inn on 3rd
Thursdays, (AUGUST ONLY), great sing-along with Kerry, Dakota Inn on John R. just
north of McNichols (6 Mile) Detroit. Good German food and drink, Lighted, guarded
parking lot, reservations recommended, 313-856-9722.
Kerry Price at the Royal Oak Senior Center Third Friday Series, 12:301:15 p.m., $2 at the door, program and sing-along. Kerry performs every 3rd Friday
at the Mahany-Meininger Center located on Marais, off 13 Mile Road near Royal Oak
High School.
8-10, Friday, 7:30 p.m., “An Evening with Irving Berlin” the final evening of
summer sounds at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 3061 N. Adams, one block
north of Big Beaver (16 Mile). Concert and refreshments are FREE! Donations
graciously accepted. Kerry Price singing the music of her favorite American popular
music composer with a few vocalist friends. Sing-along too. Come early and have
some apple pie, 6:30-7:15 p.m.
Call Kerry for questions on 248-549-2057 or e-mail:
catch [email protected].
Ron Kischuk / Tartarsauce Traditional Jazz Band
First Wednesday of each month, Ron Kischuk’s Tartarsauce Traditional Jazz
Band with Ron on trombone; Johnny Trudell on trumpet, Marion Hayden on bass
and Bill Cairo on drums. 6:30-9:30 p.m., reservations recommended. $5 cover, food
and drink specials. TV’s Grand Event, 2651 W. Jefferson Avenue, Trenton, MI 48183,
34-671-5676, [email protected].
To order Ron’s new CD “Smile” featuring the Masters of Music big band
featuring arrangements by Russ Miller, vocals by Judie Cochill, visit
www.themastersofmusic.com or e-mail ron@the mastersofmusic.com
See Ron’s extensive schedule listed at venues throughout this newsletter.
PAUL KLINGER / EASY STREET JAZZ BAND
Every Tuesday, Paul Klinger’s Easy Street Jazz Band plays dixieland and traditional jazz with special guest artists from 6-9 p.m. at Zal Gaz Grotto, 2070 Stadium
Boulevard (between Liberty and Pauline) in Ann Arbor, MI. Call 734-663-1202. $10
cover. Guest appearances and a great lineup of Paul’s wonderful, obscure tunes!
RAGTIME RICK AND THE CHEFS OF DIXIELAND
First and third Wednesday of each month, Ragtime Rick and the Chefs of Dixieland will perform at Trotters Tavern, 5131 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH 43614,
419-381-2079. 8-10:30 p.m. Located just off Exit 59 of the Ohio Turnpike, Trotter’s
Tavern features a menu of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and dinners, with full bar
service and an ample selection of draft beers. For more information, call 419-3812079. http://chefsofdixieland.com
Every Friday, Ragtime Rick and Betsy Grafing, with Ray Heitger will be hosting a New Orleans Jazz and Jam Session, 9-1 p.m. at a new place called Scrubs Pub
and Grub, 3312 Glendale Avenue (near Byrne Road) in Toledo. Full menu of classic
pub food, complete bar service, quality beer on tap. 419-382-3007.
JERRY MCKENZIE / NIKOLA’S
Jerry McKenzie and “Just Jazz” appear at Nikola’s, 25225 Telegraph Road,
Southfield, 48034, 248-355-4695. 7-10 p.m., Jerry’s group appears on the 1st, 3rd,
4th and 5th Thursday of each month. Great food! Don Swindell Quartet on the
second Thursday,
July 26 – April Tini on vocals
August 2 – Marcie Allen on vocals
August 16 – Sarah D’Angelo on vocals
August 23 – Vibraphonist Jim Cooper from Saugatuck
August 30 – Meri Slaven on vocals, with Paul VornHagen on sax and flute
September 6 – Eydie Evans-Hyde on vocals, with husband on guitar.
For their playing schedule, please visit their web site: www.chefsofdixieland.com
PETE SIERS AND LOS GATOS
Salsa Wednesday (last Wednesday of every month) 9:30 p.m., Salsa lessons available earlier in the evening, $10 cover, full kitchen, 1/2 off select wines. Vinology,
110 South Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Call 734-222-9841 to verify gig is on.
BILL MEYER
Thursdays, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. – Bert’s Market Place, 8:30-12:30 p.m., Open
jam session with the new RGB Trio featuring Ralphe Armstrong on bass, drummer
Gayelynn McKinney and Bill Meyer on piano. Cover $3, free parking, great food. 2727
Russell in the Eastern Market, (313) 567-2030. www.BertsEntertainment.com.
DAVE TATROW / WALLY’S WAREHOUSE WAIFS
Dave is playing at several venues listed throughout this newsletter. For a
complete schedule, visit www.WallysJazz.com
GENE PARKER
Tuesdays 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Mutts at the Oliver House, Gene Parker Jazz
Trio with Jeff Halsey, bass and Damen Cook, vocals/drums, http://www.theoliverhousetoledo.com
Wednesdays 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Degage Jazz Café – Gene Parker Jazz Jam, Gene
Parker and Friends, www.historiccommercialbuilding.com/degage.html
Thursdays 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Stella Blue, Archbold, OH, Gene Parker Jazz
Quartet with George Chumura, guitar, Jeff Halsey, bass and Damen Cook, Drums/
vocal, www.stellabluearchbold.com
The Inn, Ada Oh, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., On the campus of Ohio Northern University,
PAUL VORNHAGEN
7-28, Thursday, Rattlesnake, 300 River Place, Detroit, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Duo with
Phil Kelly
7-28, Saturday, Sterling Fest, Dodge Park Rd. @ Utica Rd. in Sterling Heights, 10
a.m.-1 p.m., Quartet with Phil Kelly, Kurt Krahnke and Pepe Espinosa
8-3, Friday, Bloomfield Township Library, Lone Pine Road @ Telegraph Rd.,
Bloomfield Twp. 7:30-9 p.m., Quartet with Chuck Shermetaro, Jerry McKenzie and
Pat Prouty.
Page 7
Return Postage Guaranteed
c/o Bill Bolle
6625 Aurora Drive
Troy, Michigan 48098
To our jazz-loving friends:
Page 8